Topical Encyclopedia Jehoram, the son of Jehoshaphat, reigned as the king of Judah from approximately 848 to 841 BC. His reign is notably marked by a departure from the righteous path of his father, leading to significant consequences for both himself and the kingdom of Judah. The biblical narrative provides insight into the divine prophecy concerning Jehoram, highlighting the spiritual and moral decline during his rule.Background and Reign Jehoram ascended to the throne following the death of his father, Jehoshaphat, a king who had been commended for his faithfulness to the LORD. However, Jehoram's reign was characterized by idolatry and wickedness. He married Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, which further influenced his turn towards the practices of the northern kingdom of Israel. Jehoram's actions included the murder of his own brothers and other princes of Judah to secure his position, an act that was condemned by the LORD. Prophecy from Elijah The most significant prophecy concerning Jehoram is delivered by the prophet Elijah. Although Elijah primarily ministered in the northern kingdom of Israel, he sent a letter to Jehoram, warning him of the impending judgment due to his apostasy and the leading of Judah into sin. The letter, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 21:12-15 , states: "This is what the LORD, the God of your father David, says: 'You have not walked in the ways of your father Jehoshaphat or of Asa king of Judah, but you have walked in the ways of the kings of Israel, and you have led Judah and the people of Jerusalem to prostitute themselves, just as the house of Ahab prostituted themselves. You have also murdered your own brothers, members of your father’s house, who were better than you. So now the LORD is about to strike your people, your sons, your wives, and all your possessions with a heavy blow. And you yourself will suffer with a severe illness—a disease of your bowels—until your bowels come out day by day because of the disease.'" Fulfillment of the Prophecy The prophecy delivered by Elijah was fulfilled during Jehoram's reign. The LORD stirred up the Philistines and the Arabs, who invaded Judah and carried away all the possessions found in the king's house, along with his sons and wives, leaving only his youngest son, Jehoahaz (also known as Ahaziah). Furthermore, Jehoram was afflicted with a painful and incurable disease of the bowels, as foretold by Elijah. His suffering was so severe that his bowels came out, and he died in great agony. The people of Judah did not honor him with a burial in the tombs of the kings, reflecting the disgrace that marked the end of his reign. Spiritual Implications Jehoram's account serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from the LORD and leading others into sin. The prophecy concerning Jehoram underscores the seriousness with which God views idolatry and injustice, particularly when committed by those in positions of leadership. The narrative of Jehoram's life and the fulfillment of Elijah's prophecy illustrate the divine justice that befalls those who forsake the covenantal relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and obedience to His commandments. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 21:12-15And there came a writing to him from Elijah the prophet, saying, Thus said the LORD God of David your father, Because you have not walked in the ways of Jehoshaphat your father, nor in the ways of Asa king of Judah, Nave's Topical Index Library Concerning Jehoshaphat the King of Jerusalem and How Ahab Made an ... The Twelve Minor Prophets. The Fall of the House of Ahab The Divided Kingdom. The Kingdom of Judah. Elijah Standing Before the Lord Questions. The Prophet Joel. The Greater Prophets. Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Resources Who was Elisha in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the difference between fornication and adultery? | GotQuestions.org Who/what is Edom (Obadiah 1:1, 8)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Jehoram: A Priest Commissioned to Go Through Israel and Instruct the People in the Law Jehoram: King of Judah: Ancestor of Jesus Jehoram: King of Judah: Death of Jehoram: King of Judah: Edom Revolts From Jehoram: King of Judah: Marries Athaliah, Whose Wicked Counsels Influence his Reign for Evil Jehoram: King of Judah: Murders his Brothers to Strengthen Himself in his Sovereignty Jehoram: King of Judah: Prophecy Concerning Jehoram: King of Judah: The Philistines and Arabians Invade his Territory Related Terms |
    |